Blackthorn Takes On Bristolís Football Clubs

Bristol’s two main professional football clubs were given a boost after South West Cider brand, Blackthorn, announced a renewal of its sponsorship agreements with each club.

The partnerships will see Blackthorn Cider continue as the main club sponsor of Bristol City Football Club and back of shirt sponsor for Bristol Rovers Football Club as well as Bristol Rugby Club.

Blackthorn Cider will also be taking stadium branding at both Ashton Gate and the Memorial Ground.

Andrew Cross, Blackthorn marketing manager commented: “We are delighted to announce the sponsorships of all three Bristol clubs for next season.

“Blackthorn is a true West Country cider and we are very proud to be the biggest supporter of sport in the area. We have exciting plans for the Blackthorn brand next season and the sponsorships will give us an excellent platform to get our message across to locals and fans of all three clubs.

“We look forward to strengthening our relationships by working closely with each club and wish them all a very successful season.”

Kevin Smith, commercial director of Bristol City Football Club, commented: “I am delighted that Blackthorn will be Bristol City’s Main Club Sponsor for the 2013/14 season.

“Working closely with the team at Blackthorn, we have a number of exciting developments planned for the coming season to further improve the match day experience here at Ashton Gate.”

He added: “It has been a challenging season for us, so this show of support from Blackthorn demonstrates faith in the club and more importantly, underpins our motto for the coming season - keep supporting your local team!”

Ian Holtby, Stadium Manager at Bristol Rovers commented: "This is a major sponsorship deal that means a lot to Bristol Rovers and its avid supporters and comes at a hugely exciting time for the club.

“Our long-standing partnership with Blackthorn demonstrates belief in our vision and ambition and we look forward to building on the successful partnership together. Cider is synonymous with the West Country; it’s fantastic that Blackthorn is investing sponsorship funds into West Country clubs, especially Bristol Rovers”.

With its renewed sponsorships, Blackthorn continues as the biggest supporter of sport in Bristol.